Financial Specialist (Part-Time)

Organization: Common Ground Works (CGW)

Location: Milwaukee, WI (Hybrid/Flexible)

Position Type: Part-Time (Approx. 15-20 hours per week)

Compensation: $23.00 – $30.00 per hour, commensurate with experience $2,056 Health Insurance Stipend (included in salary) 

Reports To: Executive Director

The Financial Specialist & Part-Time Bookkeeper is the lead accounting professional for CGW, responsible for both the daily transactional recording and the preparation of high-level financial reports required for grant compliance and strategic decision-making. This role ensures financial accountability, transparency, and the efficient use of resources dedicated to supporting our participants.

Core Responsibilities1. Bookkeeping and Transaction Management

• Accounts Payable (A/P): Execute the entire accounts payable cycle, including receiving, verifying, and coding invoices to the correct chart of accounts. Process timely payments via check or ACH.
• Accounts Receivable (A/R) & Deposits: Accurately record all revenue streams, including grant disbursements, fee-for-service income (e.g., Employer Training fees), and donations.
• Reconciliation: Perform accurate and timely monthly reconciliation of all bank and credit card accounts to the general ledger, ensuring audit readiness.
• Expense Auditing: Process and audit all staff expense reports and reimbursements, ensuring strict compliance with both CGW and grant funding policies.

2. Financial Analysis and Reporting

• Budget Monitoring: Continuously track and monitor actual expenditures against the overall operating budget and specifically against restricted grant budgets. Report significant variances to the Executive Director.
• Grant Reporting: Prepare required financial documentation for monthly, quarterly, and annual grant reporting, ensuring expenses are accurately categorized and attributed according to funder requirements.
• Financial Statements: Prepare and present internal monthly financial statements (Balance Sheet, P&L, Statement of Functional Expenses) tailored for non-profit and board review.
• Audit Preparation: Coordinate and assist the Executive Director with all documentation, schedules, and materials required for the annual independent audit.

3. Compliance and System Integrity

• Maintain organized, accessible, and confidential financial records in accordance with GAAP for non-profits.
• Ensure timely preparation of 1099 forms and assist with tax document preparation.
• Maintain integrity and security of the financial data within the accounting software.

Required Qualifications

• Experience: Minimum of 2-5 years of hands-on bookkeeping and financial reporting experience, preferably within a non-profit or grant-funded environment.
• Software Mastery: Expert-level proficiency with QuickBooks (online or desktop) is mandatory. Experience with other non-profit financial tools is a plus.
• Knowledge: Strong understanding of non-profit accounting principles (GAAP).
• Characteristics: Exceptional attention to detail, demonstrated analytical skills, and a commitment to maintaining confidentiality and ethical financial practices.

Mission Alignment: A deep commitment to CGW’s mission of achieving equity, using a trauma-informed lens, and supporting individuals with complex barriers to achieve long-term stability.